Welcome to a realm of diversity and beauty that spans countries on South America’s Pacific coast. This route takes you to an array of hidden gems that can only be reached with a small expedition ship such as the HANSEATIC inspiration, including Isla Pan de Azucar for example. Around the large sandy mountain of the “sugarloaf island”, your first Zodiac ride on this expedition will treat your eyes to the sight of guanay cormorants and Peruvian pelicans.

The Paracas Peninsula in South America’s largest marine reserve may look like a desert but it is in fact full of life. Chilean flamingos and Peruvian boobies nest on the steep cliffs and seals and penguins hunt in the waters. A flight over the mysterious Nazca Lines* reveals an enigma that is over 2,000 years old at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are many theories about the origins of the geometric figures and monumental animal images in the desert landscape. A boat trip to the Islas Ballestas* brings lively sightings of sea lions, gannets and pelicans. A different vibrancy awaits in South America’s most important trading port, Callao (Lima). Peru’s fascinating history is waiting to be revealed here. Explore Lima, the capital of Peru*, which was founded in 1535 by the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro. The fascinating “City of Kings” is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with historic buildings and monasteries from colonial times. As you visit the temple ruins*, modern urban architecture contrasts with remnants of Peru’s oldest cultures, such as the sacred burial temple of Huaca Huallamarca from the sixth century. The explorer in you will be awed by fascinating natural history as you reach the Islas Grupo de Huaura and Islas Guanape. Your Zodiac rides here will be guided by respect for the sensitive nature – in keeping with the Hapag-Lloyd Cruises environmental philosophy. The Humboldt penguins on the rocky islands are joined by seabirds such as guanay cormorants and Peruvian boobies. Perhaps some time on the many open deck spaces or glass balconies will reward you with glimpses of whales surfacing. Isla Lobos de Tierra is not just a paradise for ornithologists: in addition to pelicans and blue-footed boobies, its rocky coastline is populated by sea lions which, with a little luck, you will see from the Zodiacs and – if the authorities permit – on a shore visit.

What influence did the conquistadors have and how much did they shape South America? From Ecuador’s banana capital Puerto Bolivar, embark on a journey through time with a flight excursion to Quito*, the highest capital city in the world. Walk through the old town at almost 3,000 m (9,843 ft) above sea level. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a harmonious blend of old indigenous culture and colonial baroque. Puyango Petrified Forest* will take you even further back in the history of the planet, with fossils dating back up to 100 million years. Learn about the adventures of the 16th-century privateers on Isla de la Plata. It is said that Sir Francis Drake hid treasure on the “silver island”. Today, the true riches are to be found in the animal kingdom, with Nazca boobies, turkey vultures and lava lizards.

Follow a trail rather than leave one behind: Colombia’s eco-tourism objectives are in line with our standards on board the HANSEATIC inspiration. Isla Gorgona shows how nature is reclaiming a former pirate base and the “Alcatraz of Colombia”. The paradise surrounded by coral reefs and secluded beaches is a place for dreaming and discovery. The diversity of the rainforest island is surpassed by Utria National Park with a biodiversity that is possibly the world’s greatest. The approximately 5 km (3.1 mi.) long bay of Ensenada de Utria is a haven for marine animals. A wooden walkway leads around 800 m (875 yards) through the mangrove swamp, providing insights that change with the tides. The highlights of a challenging jungle hike with rangers include anteaters, howler monkeys, sloths and hummingbirds – just some of the species that live here.

Enter the green heart of Panama like the locals in the Gulf of San Miguel: typical boats will take you into the Darien jungle, Central America’s largest continuous rainforest. Find out about the life of the Embera people as you meet them in their traditional villages surrounded by the lush vegetation.

Back on board, the excitement will build as the absolute highlight of your route draws near: a daytime passage through the Panama Canal. Gigantic locks, which are some of the world’s largest concrete structures, will reveal the past and present of one of the most important waterways on the planet. Covering around 80 km (50 mi.), your diverse route will take you past savannahs and jungle, with fascinating background information from your team of experts. And as if this technical marvel weren’t amazing enough alone, the many South American experiences on this expedition will help you to see this continent with new eyes.